Effect of forefoot type on postural stability - a cross sectional comparative study.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Kinesiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Foot structure, including forefoot posture, can influence postural control.
• Impaired postural control is linked to foot and ankle injuries.
• Understanding the relationship between foot structure and stability is crucial for injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of different forefoot postures on postural stability.
• To analyze the correlation between forefoot varus angles and other foot alignment measures.
• To determine if forefoot varus influences measures of postural control during single-limb stance.

Main Methods:

• Sixty healthy young adults were categorized into high, neutral, and low forefoot varus groups.
• Measurements included forefoot angle, rearfoot angle, and navicular drop.
• Postural stability was assessed using Center of Pressure (COP) analysis on a force platform under various visual conditions.

Main Results:

• Significant positive correlations were observed between forefoot angle and rearfoot angle (r=0.71) and navicular drop (r=0.58).
• Forefoot angle showed a weak negative correlation with the Stability Index (SI) with eyes closed (r=-0.25).
• No significant correlations were found between forefoot angle and Center of Pressure (COP) excursions in the anterior-posterior or medial-lateral planes.

Conclusions:

• Forefoot varus angle is associated with rearfoot alignment and navicular drop.
• Forefoot posture does not appear to be a primary determinant of postural stability in healthy individuals.
• Further research may explore other factors influencing postural control in relation to foot structure.